How To Choose Window Treatments

It’s a sad thing to say, but window treatments seem to be an afterthought. The last thing that people think about in their home are the window treatments because they aren’t considered a necessity. Appliances are a necessity, but window treatments are seen as a dressing. However, that story changes when people need them due to a nosy neighbor or annoying sunbeams.

There are two ways you can go about revamping your windows: ordering custom treatments or shopping for them in the store. Designers recommend the former because it can cut down on the risk of errors, but you can also go down the DIY path if you are on a budget. Retailers such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, and others offer free in-home consultations and assistance with measurements. There are other companies in Gatineau that specialize in window coverings that offer design guidance and repairs as well. No matter what kind of budget you have, it is best to go in with a plan.

The first thing you need to do is decide whether you want shutters, shades, blinds, or curtains. You have to ask yourself what you want to achieve. Do you want privacy, light control, or just something to make your room look a little nicer? Consider what the main function of the room in question is. It’s a nursery that needs blackout curtains for naptime? Maybe you belong to a homeowners association. If that’s the case, consider shutters or blinds.

Once you have answered the preliminary questions, familiarize yourself with your options. Remember, you are looking at between $25-$100 per window for professional installation of most window coverings, depending on which company you select in Gatineau.

Blinds

These are generally the cheapest choice and are considered “hard” treatments because they are made from wood or metal and are arranged in slats. It can cost as much as $5 for a 2×4 foot window, making them a good choice for rental apartments. However, they aren’t very stylish. They are purely for functionality. They open and close to provide privacy. If you want a more architectural look, then go with faux wood blinds. Its popular in Gatineau and surrounding areas.

Shades

Shades are considered to be soft treatments and they are a little more expensive and made from fabric. They don’t allow for light-filtering adjustments like blinds do, but they can come in various levels of opacity. There are three main types of shades: rollers, roman, and honeycomb shades. The more layers, the more energy efficient they are. Solar cellular shades can save you up to 20% on your energy bill. Vinyl roller shades can cost as little as $8 per window but can range from $30-$90 without including installation. Blackout options are generally more expensive. Cellular and Roman shades can cost roughly $50-$100 per window within Gatineau

Shutters

These are by far the more expensive option and lend the appearance of custom woodwork. It is best to have the shutters fitted to your windows, but there are also affordable stock options that cost around $100 for a 3×3 foot square window.

Curtains

Certain decisions are seemingly endless. There are so many different patterns and custom drapery can cost thousands of dollars. Curtains that are ready-made offer more warmth and a lower price than hard window treatments. Measurements are also much easier because you aren’t confined to the inside of the frame. Headings indicate how the top of the curtain is attached to the rod. Sunlight fades fabric, so it’s important to avoid rich-colored curtains in a bright room. It’s also best to have your curtains hover over one inch above the floor.